A firefighter from Titchfield Common has received an award for his lifesaving blood and platelet donations.
Gary Elston, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service Watch Manager for Winchester station, was recognised by the National Blood and Transplant service at an emotional awards ceremony for his incredible 500 platelet donations.
Gary Elston and Steph Robinson
Well known to staff at the Donor Centre in Southampton which he visits every fortnight, Gary has been giving blood for more than 30 years and his donations have saved more than 1,000 lives.
Gary said that his experience as a fire fighter and his role in Road Safety education made him recognise the vital role that blood donation played in the treatment of road casualties.
He actively encourages people to sign up to become a donor and said: “You never know when you will need it and I hope to continue donating for as long as I possibly can.
“My goal is to make the highest number of donations on the south coast.”
His amazing efforts were highlighted by University of Southampton student Steph Robinson who thanked donors at the ceremony. He was one of 46 donors recognised at the awards ceremony in Winchester.
Steph, who has inflammatory bowel disease and has needed approximately 30 units of blood to date, said: “Receiving blood was like a big hug.
“The effect was instantaneous and I and my family are so grateful to all the donors who have helped to save my life.”
Amanda Whatley, Donor Relations Co-ordinator at NHSBT said: “More blood and platelet donors are needed across Hampshire to meet hospital demand – regular supply of blood is vital – red cells only last 35 days and platelets only five days.
“Please make the effort to roll up your sleeve and save a life; give the gift that costs nothing but means so much to people who receive it.”
To find out more about giving blood or to book an appointment call 0300 123 23 23 or log on to www.blood.co.uk.